Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe - Authentic and Flavorful

Region / culture: England, Punjab | Preparation time: 24 hours | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that consists of marinated and grilled chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is loved by many.

History

Chicken Tikka Masala is said to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, but its exact origins are unclear. Some believe that it was created in the UK by Bangladeshi chefs, while others claim it has roots in Punjab, India. Regardless of its origins, Chicken Tikka Masala has become a staple in Indian cuisine and is enjoyed worldwide.

Ingredients

2 tbsp cumin seeds
2 tbsp coriander seeds
2 tbsp paprika
1 tsp chilli powder
red food coloring
juice of 1 lime
10 oz (283 g) thick yoghurt
salt to taste
1.5 lb (680 g) chicken, diced
5 cloves garlic, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
0.5 cup water
oil for cooking

How to prepare

Grind the spices and mix them with the marinade ingredients.
Immerse the chicken in the marinade and leave it in the fridge for 24 hours.
Heat oil in a frying pan until it is very hot.
Stir fry the chicken vigorously for about 5 minutes.
Remove the chicken and keep it warm.
Fry the onion and garlic until they are just browning, then return the chicken with any remaining marinade and water.
Simmer until the chicken is cooked and the sauce is nice and thick.
Instead of cooking the chicken in the frying pan as in step 3, this dish can also be prepared in a different fashion.
The chicken can be grilled on a grill for 5 minutes, and to finish it off, grill it on high heat to get the burnt marks.
This dish is best served with naan, roti, or rice.

Variations

Use paneer or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor.
Make it spicier by adding more chili powder or fresh green chilies.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use thick yogurt in the marinade to help tenderize the chicken.

- Cook the chicken on high heat to get a nice charred flavor.

- Simmer the sauce until it is thick and creamy for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala with naan bread, rice, or roti. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the chicken for at least 24 hours for maximum flavor.

- Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor before adding it to the sauce.

- Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a thicker marinade.

- Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the sauce.

- Use garam masala instead of individual spices for a quicker version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also make the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Tikka Masala with a refreshing cucumber raita, tangy mango chutney, and a side of spicy pickles for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Tikka Masala is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

Contains dairy (yogurt) and may contain nuts (depending on the recipe variation).

Summary

Chicken Tikka Masala is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Tikka Masala is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend, Aisha, who had just returned from a trip to India. She invited me over for dinner and promised to cook me a traditional Indian meal.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma. Aisha was marinating pieces of chicken in a rich and fragrant sauce, and the spices she was using filled the room with a warm and inviting scent. She explained to me that she was making Chicken Tikka Masala, a popular Indian dish that she had learned to make during her travels.

I watched in awe as Aisha expertly cooked the chicken in a hot skillet, turning the pieces until they were perfectly browned and tender. She then added a creamy tomato sauce infused with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The sauce simmered on the stove, thickening and developing a deep and complex flavor.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Chicken Tikka Masala and was immediately transported to a world of bold and exotic flavors. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic spices was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Aisha graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and offering tips and tricks to ensure that the dish turned out perfectly every time. I took notes furiously, eager to recreate the magic of that evening in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Chicken Tikka Masala countless times, each batch slightly different from the last as I tinkered with the recipe and made it my own. I have served it to friends and family, who always ask for seconds and rave about its incredible flavor.

One of my favorite memories involving this dish was when I made it for my grandchildren, who had never tried Indian food before. They were hesitant at first, unsure of the unfamiliar flavors and spices. But as soon as they took their first bites, their faces lit up with delight. They devoured the Chicken Tikka Masala with gusto, proclaiming it to be the best thing they had ever tasted.

I love sharing this recipe with others, passing on the tradition of making Chicken Tikka Masala to the next generation. It brings me joy to see the smiles on their faces as they savor each bite, just as I did when I first discovered this dish all those years ago.

As I reflect on my journey with this recipe, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the day I first experienced its magic and the joy it has brought to me and my loved ones ever since.